They’re raising objections all over the place.

The Vanderbilt Mock Trial team allowed 18 students to step into the shoes of either lawyers or witnesses as they fought cases across the country this year.

“It really helps students develop a presence in the courtroom, persuasiveness and effective speaking abilities,” said sophomore Erika Hyde.

After receiving a criminal case at the beginning of this year, the team spent countless hours in the law school examining the many aspects of the case and preparing their arguments.

Second-year law student Irina Khasin taught in-depth legal material such as rules of evidence and argumentative techniques.

“The exciting aspect of fighting a case, though, is that you never know what to expect no matter how hard you prepare,” said junior and co-president Kelly Coffman. “It’s fun because it really makes you have to think on your feet.”

The team attended five competitions throughout the year and traveled to cities such as Chicago, St. Louis and Orlando in order to argue against some of the top schools of the country.

This year’s successes included receiving individual awards at every competition and placing in the top five at both invitationals. The team’s performance at regionals earned it a bid to nationals, where the team received honorable mention.

“I think we have had the most successful year in mock trial history, and now we just really hope to expand and increase participation in our program,” Hyde said.

Next year, the group plans on having two full-time law student coaches and an additional team for competitions.

“What’s important to remember, though, that this program is not just solely for pre-law students,” said Coffman, who is planning on attending medical school. “It really teaches you so many skills that you can take further and that anyone can benefit from.”

—Judy Wang can be reached at zhu.wang@vanderbilt.edu